Juan Soto returns as DH for Mets after back tightness

New York Mets star outfielder Juan Soto returned to the lineup on Thursday, June 25, as the designated hitter against the Chicago Cubs, one day after missing a game due to back tightness. The development was a significant relief for the struggling club, which had feared a more serious injury after Soto was forced to exit Tuesday night's contest at Citi Field.

Soto left Tuesday's game in the top of the fifth inning. During his at-bats, he was visibly grimacing after swings and appeared uncomfortable while running. Team personnel also noted he was struggling with routine throws in the outfield. The Mets later confirmed the issue was tightness on the left side of his back. After the game, manager Carlos Mendoza described it as a back lock-up and labeled Soto as day-to-day.

The slugger received treatment but did not play in Wednesday's series finale. His return on Thursday, albeit strictly as a hitter, was seen as a positive step. Mendoza said it was a good sign that Soto wanted to play rather than being available only as a pinch-hitter. The manager did not have a timeline for when Soto might return to playing the outfield.

Soto has been a cornerstone of the Mets' offense this...